The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your cooling and heating system, maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges an annual fee to have your system checked, repaired or cleaned as required.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the space around outdoor units free of debris to promote the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your air conditioner condenser are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool, and it could even breakdown. Cleaning them is a crucial aspect of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also fairly easy to do. This easy DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the life of your air conditioner.
It is the first step. It is important to disconnect the power to your unit. You can do this by turning off the breaker at your electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded during cleaning.
Once the power is off it is now time to clear any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This means taking away any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum with a crevice tool is a great tool to get into the crevices, nooks, and loosen dust or dirt that has accumulated.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Be sure to have a few essential tools available prior to beginning. These will include a coil cleaner concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the label, and then rinse it off with the hose. It is crucial not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils, as the fins can easily be bent.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks thrown from lawnmowers or other items could damage the coil fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and performance of the coil.
When the fins and coils are in good shape If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, return to your home and start your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you can check the thermostat to ensure that the temperature is normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works to bring outside air into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout the house. The air travels from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit to the vents and registers of your home through a system of ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other contaminants if they are not cleaned and sealed properly. This clogs the air filters and reduces the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.
In the majority of cases, cleaning the ductwork is not an easy task and requires the help of professional equipment and techniques. There are a few things you can do to ensure that your ducts are clean and functioning properly. First, you should change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens from accumulating into the ducts. This also helps to prevent the clogging that can cause a decrease in system efficiency and high energy bills.
Another way to keep your ducts clean is to regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that has built up over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. It is also important to make sure your ducts are tightly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they could collect a variety of pollutants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory and allergy conditions particularly for children and the elderly. Moisture in ductwork can also cause the growth of mold which releases spores in the air and poses health risks for those with respiratory problems.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts once every three to five years to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed well and you replace your filter on a regular basis It may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to know for certain is to have your ducts tested. A licensed contractor can employ special testing methods to measure the amount of particles in your ductwork, and will recommend the appropriate cleaning schedules that are based on your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential component of the system. It has to function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating properly, it could affect your productivity and cause delays for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues earlier, avoiding excessive downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by ensuring that your equipment in the best condition possible.
A decrease in cooling capacity is a common indication of a problem with a compressor. It could be caused by several different causes. A compressor may be operating too hard due insufficient airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is a different problem. Filters that have become blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is essential to change or clean the filters according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
A blocked filter could cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are wearing out and require to be replaced. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A worn-out belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat, causing other problems. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This can remove accumulated moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also check for leaks in the hoses, and a tight seal on the pressure sensor and compressor.
Finally, a puddle of water near the compressor could be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This is a serious issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that a technician will always check the thermostat first when there’s a problem. A well-maintained thermostat is vital to the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most frequently neglected maintenance items. The most common signs that your thermostat requires periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which may cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. You can avoid this issue by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with the use of a separate thermometer.
A defective sensor or a faulty calibration can cause your system to cycle on and off in a continuous manner. This is called short cycling. This can affect your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.
Make sure you check the breakers on both your HVAC equipment and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped then you’ll have to reset it to allow your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Check for signs of dirt or dust, and make sure the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Lastly, the fan blades must be inspected for any signs of rust or damage. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the future, and help ensure that your equipment is operating as efficiently as it is possible.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great way to cut down on energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial building. It will also extend the lifespan of heating and cooling equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building cool all year round. Be sure to call a professional in case you experience any other issues or are unsure of the issue you should always consult a professional.
